With three presumptive cases of COVID-19 in Hays County and more expected, officials are calling for calm and cooperation, urging the public to observe social distancing and proper hygiene as local authorities rely on plans and protocols already in place.

County Judge Ruben Becerra issued a state of disaster declaration on Sunday effective for seven days. On Monday, the Commissioner Court extended that for 120 days unless it is suspended before then.

Becerra’s declaration was announced at a ...